The new pope elected in 2025 is Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who took the papal name Pope Leo XIV and is now the head of the Catholic Church.

Who is the new pope (2025)?

  • Name before election: Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost.
  • Papal name: Pope Leo XIV.
  • Elected: During the May 2025 conclave, on the second day of voting (fourth ballot).
  • Reason for conclave: The conclave followed the death of Pope Francis in April 2025.

Quick background on Pope Leo XIV

  • Nationality: First pope born in the United States.
  • Previous role: Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
  • Past ministry: Longtime missionary service in Peru and leadership roles in the Church there.

Key 2025 timeline

  • Death of Pope Francis: 21 April 2025.
  • Conclave dates: 7–8 May 2025 in the Sistine Chapel.
  • Election and announcement: White smoke and “Habemus Papam” announcement on 8 May 2025, presenting Leo XIV.
  • Inauguration Mass as pope: 18 May 2025 in St. Peter’s Square.

Why this was a big moment

  • Historic first: Leo XIV is the first American pope in the 2,000‑year history of the Church, which drew major global attention.
  • 2025 in Catholic news: Many retrospectives on 2025 highlight the year as being defined by the transition from Pope Francis to Pope Leo XIV.

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In 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected the new pope of the Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV, following the death of Pope Francis and a May 2025 conclave in the Sistine Chapel.

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